After initially getting snubbed by voters, Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins was named Friday to the 2015 Western Conference All-Star team.

The NBA announced Cousins would replace injured all-star Kobe Bryant in the February game, which will be played in New York City.

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"I'm extremely excited to play in my first All-Star game," Cousins said, in a written statement. "I appreciate the recognition and want to also thank my teammates and the fans for their support throughout the season. Representing the Kings and the city of Sacramento is a great honor."

Cousins is the first Kings player to participate in an All-Star game since Brad Miller and Peja Stojakovic represented Sacramento in 2004.

"Everyone in the Kings organization is thrilled for DeMarcus and happy that his diligence and commitment to becoming the best player he can be has been recognized," Kings General Manager Pete D'Alessandro said, in a released statement.

In his fifth NBA season, Cousins is averaging 23.8 points, 12.3 rebounds and 1.63 blocks per game, leading his team in all three categories.